Should I Buy a Google Chromebook: 7 Things You Need to Know

There are a lot of options when buying a new device these days. From new laptops to tablets, there are a range of sizes[HSE1] and operating systems to choose from. One of the newer entrants is the Chromebook.

A Chromebook is a device that looks very similar to your everyday laptop, but it runs Google’s Chrome browser as its operating system. Since it is based on the Chrome browser, this means you will need to be connected to the internet to run most of your Chrome applications. However, Google has been working on updates to many of their popular applications so that they will work even without an internet connection.

There is now a range of options when selecting a Chromebook. In 2013, you have the option of devices made by Google, HP, Lenovo, Acer and Samsung. Most of these devices are quite affordable and range from $199 to $349. At the very top end of the pricing is the Google Pixel at $1,299.

1. Chromebook Features

From managing text-based documents on Google drive to simple video editing and blogging, Chromebooks are able to perform day to day tasks, but do not provide the full features of a regular laptop. Intel Chromebooks provide light productivity at an affordable price and are on par with full featured laptops when it comes to rich web experience and long battery life. Within 7 seconds or less, one push to power button can launch you to a fast web experience.

2. Safety in the Cloud

If you’re new to computing, the idea of storing your data in a cloud might seem foreign. Google Drive, a cloud based file storage service provided by Google, allows you to access your files after logging into your Chrome account from any device. Personal cloud computing from your Chromebook means your files are safe even if your device is lost, dropped or stolen. Furthermore, your storage space is maximized and your data is automatically and securely synchronized over WiFi. Chromebook lets you take your notes and collaborate from almost anywhere.

3. Sleek and Light Design

Chromebook manufacturers have created beautiful designs that are light weight, snappy and quiet. A Chromebook is small enough to fit into a purse or backpack and can be taken on the go for fast email access, a quick blog update and note taking.

4. Web Experience

When it comes to you and what you do on the web, performance matters. An Intel powered Chromebook provides faster web experience with instant response to the applications whether for retouching your vacation pictures online before sharing or accessing your online stock quotes and financial charts. Content-rich webpages load quickly and easily, provide great HD video playback, and enable you to multitask effortlessly by allowing multiple pages to run at the same time. Intel powered Chromebooks run all of your favorite[PRD2] games, including Bastion, Wolf Toss, Cracking Sands, Don’t Starve, and So Many Me, many of which may not be available to run on Chromebooks based on other processors.

5. Chrome Applications

Intel + Chromebook Chromebook allows multitasking between Google Drive and hundreds of other Chrome OS Apps from Google play. Intel has partnered with Chrome App developers to ensure that apps running on an Intel powered Chromebook take advantage of the increased performance for a better experience. It’s reassuring to know that more than 1,000 software engineers[HSE3] at Intel are spending their time working on Chrome OS in order to unleash the maximum potential of Intel silicon, giving you an uncompromised user experience.

6. Affordability Counts

For as low as $199, I get the power of Intel® Celeron® based Chromebooks, offering a smooth video playback and graphics rendering, great multi-tasking, and an overall fast web experience. Although Chromebook may not be a primary computing device just yet, it still stands as a secondary device for fun, entertainment, blogging and document creation.

7. What’s next for Intel® Chromebooks™

Google and Intel introduced a fresh lineup of Chromebooks using Intel processors based on the Haswell microarchitecture, including designs from HP Chromebook 14 and Acer C720 – just in time for the holidays. These new Intel based Chromebooks use less power while still delivering better graphics, performance, longer battery life and sleeker designs than the current generation of Intel Chromebooks. Also, with more services trending towards the cloud (i.e. Office 365, Evernote, Dropbox), you can expect to see Chromebook becoming an integral part of daily life and educational systems.